Therapy Benefits

Dogs are loyal and provide constant companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Having your dog by your side can provide immense comfort and a deep sense of connection, making them exceptional companions for individuals in need of emotional support. Their unwavering loyalty and affectionate nature can be incredibly soothing, offering a reliable source of solace during challenging times. I can speak from experience because at one point, I had a therapy dog and that was essential to my rehabilitation process.

Interacting with dogs has been shown to lower stress levels. Petting a dog can reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and increase the production of serotonin and dopamine, which promote feelings of happiness and relaxation. This companionship can significantly improve mental and emotional well-being, providing comfort during tough times and joy during moments of happiness. Dogs are not just pets; they are family members who contribute to the overall quality of life.

As you can see, I once had a therapy dog named Barbosa. He was a beneficial therapy dog who comforted me during my challenging and exhausting rehabilitation. I was recovering from a traumatic brain injury, and Barbosa helped me with different basic skills I needed to practice. He helped me improve by walking with me in a straight line and ensuring I didn’t veer to the left or right.